Multiscale modeling of the effect of the interfacial transition zone on the modulus of elasticity of fiber-reinforced fine concrete

A multiscale model of fiber-reinforced fine concrete is developed, with special emphasis on the interfacial transition zone (ITZ). It does not only allow the prediction of the modulus of elasticity but also permits the determination of the strain and stress field. The model is based on the mathematical homogenization method and implemented in the frame of the finite element method. A comparison of model predictions with experimental results taken from the literature validates the model’s effectiveness for prediction of the elasticity modulus. The effect of the thickness and of the elasticity modulus of the ITZ on the elasticity modulus of the homogenized material as well as the influence of the strength of the ITZ on the elastic limit of the homogenized material, are investigated numerically. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis is carried out to evaluate the influence of fine-scale factors on the elasticity modulus of ultra-high performance concrete.